Broward County Commission to vote on marijuana ordinance

$100 civil citations to be given to those caught with 20 grams or less of marijuana

BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. ā€“ Broward County commissioners are expected to vote Tuesday on a new marijuana ordinance that would allow law enforcement officers to issue citations to those caught with small amounts of marijuana.

Under the proposed ordinance, which is similar to that in Miami-Dade County and Key West, police officers will have the option of issuing a $100 civil citation to someone caught with 20 grams or less of marijuana instead of filing a misdemeanor criminal charge against that person.

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Officers would issue a $250 citation for repeat violations.

"I believe this is an important issue for Broward County and our residents. Ā If passed, it will give good people who have made a mistake a second chance in life," said Vice Mayor Marty Kiar, who first brought the issue forward.

Commissioners Dale V.C. Holness and Beam Furr are also sponsors of the new ordinance.Ā 

The fine could be waived if the offender chooses to attend a county-approved community service program.

Under the ordinance, civil citations would not be given if someone is found with marijuana in conjunction with other crimes, such as driving under the influence.

If commissioners vote Tuesday in favor of the proposed ordinance, a public hearing will be scheduled for Oct. 27.

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Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com.